How I wished I'd known there was an index at the end of this book with a list of characters and a glossary of all the new words about to become internalized in my vocabulary. Another reason to love a BOOK instead of downloading an ebook version. Or maybe I just haven't learned to work my kindle in the same exploratory fashion I work a book over?? Either way, had I known what I was getting into, I would have definitely bought the book. I'm pretty sure I cursed when I found it. This is a vast, vast world, filled with innumerable characters and how a reference could have enhanced the journey!
Off the top of my head, I'd rattle off "Game of Thrones(ish)" if asked for a quick description. The author spun a tale about a world populated with distinctive countries, eccentric rulers, dragons, wyverns, magic, pirates, waxing & waning jewels ~ you name it, if it was fantastical, it was included. I was surprised to find it was written from a strong feminist point of view. There are two male characters who stuck with me, Niclays Roos and Loth but every other pivotal character was female!
I almost wish the author had separated the book into two works. It's ambitious enough to warrant that division. The first part could have been an introduction to the characters, the back stories and revelation of the plot line (so much there.) The second book could have involved the build up & battle with 'the Nameless One' and the aftermath. As it was, the culmination/battle itself felt rushed to me (didn't occur until 90% of the book was read) then took less than 5% of the pages to finish. My head is still spinning with how quickly it escalated, transpired and wrapped. Killing Kalyba seemed too easy?? and maybe even the dreaded 'Nameless One??' Whiplash anyone??!!
The ending also left me hanging regarding a couple characters. Primarily Tane. Did she die?? When she fell asleep by the Mulberry Tree, in the morning she's got a white butterfly cupped in her hands & her side is soaked in blood?? I went back & re-read twice but obviously I missed something?? Also what happened to those two coveted jewels?? Did they get tossed into the Abyss with the fierce 'Nameless One?' I missed that part too. So many characters left without resolution or their futures quickly summarized. I'm sure I have other questions but my brain is fried right now.
Title & Cover are 5 star. Although this says "stand alone" novel, I could absolutely see a sequel down the road, centered around the hunt for Fyredel, a romance for Loth, etc., etc. This was my first foray back into fantasy since GoT's and it was enjoyable to touch base with that genre again. I'd categorize this book as a YA Fantasy and think it could be especially enjoyable on audible.
Off the top of my head, I'd rattle off "Game of Thrones(ish)" if asked for a quick description. The author spun a tale about a world populated with distinctive countries, eccentric rulers, dragons, wyverns, magic, pirates, waxing & waning jewels ~ you name it, if it was fantastical, it was included. I was surprised to find it was written from a strong feminist point of view. There are two male characters who stuck with me, Niclays Roos and Loth but every other pivotal character was female!
I almost wish the author had separated the book into two works. It's ambitious enough to warrant that division. The first part could have been an introduction to the characters, the back stories and revelation of the plot line (so much there.) The second book could have involved the build up & battle with 'the Nameless One' and the aftermath. As it was, the culmination/battle itself felt rushed to me (didn't occur until 90% of the book was read) then took less than 5% of the pages to finish. My head is still spinning with how quickly it escalated, transpired and wrapped. Killing Kalyba seemed too easy?? and maybe even the dreaded 'Nameless One??' Whiplash anyone??!!
The ending also left me hanging regarding a couple characters. Primarily Tane. Did she die?? When she fell asleep by the Mulberry Tree, in the morning she's got a white butterfly cupped in her hands & her side is soaked in blood?? I went back & re-read twice but obviously I missed something?? Also what happened to those two coveted jewels?? Did they get tossed into the Abyss with the fierce 'Nameless One?' I missed that part too. So many characters left without resolution or their futures quickly summarized. I'm sure I have other questions but my brain is fried right now.
Title & Cover are 5 star. Although this says "stand alone" novel, I could absolutely see a sequel down the road, centered around the hunt for Fyredel, a romance for Loth, etc., etc. This was my first foray back into fantasy since GoT's and it was enjoyable to touch base with that genre again. I'd categorize this book as a YA Fantasy and think it could be especially enjoyable on audible.
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